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Hometown for the Holidays
By Patricia Szpekowski
Holiday happenings are the lifeblood of family traditions, evoking memories that last a lifetime to be passed down from one generation to another. While it can be a time for making long lists for holiday gift giving or managing shopping lists to coordinate family menu favorites, the holiday season is all about love, giving back, and having fun.
Kendall County area communities offer their own unique take on special holiday traditions that engage their residents and ultimately become part of family traditions, too. Don’t let the rush of holiday tasks make you lose the luster of this magical time of year. This holiday season, celebrate the innocence of an Elf and leave the Grinch for fun photo ops and giggles instead.
Community holiday traditions allow everyone to share positive experiences with each other and look forward to attending these special events year after year. There’s nothing like stopping by your community’s downtown and taking part in a wide variety of events that have been assembled especially for you. Let the creativity of holiday tree lighting ceremonies ignite the spirit of the season for you and your family.
Join the individual celebrations throughout the Kendall County area, which are followed by a multitude of other joyful activities, like a visit to Santa in his workshop, a stroll through the downtowns for special holiday shopping, sipping cocoa and refreshments while enjoying holiday music, or cheering at a local holiday parade that’s lit up with bright lights.
Angie Hibben, president/CEO, of the Oswego Chamber of Commerce, adds there are many popular events taking place during the holidays throughout Oswego. “We have the Christmas
Walk, sponsored by the Village of Oswego, in downtown Oswego on December 5 and then the Oswego Downtown Association has its popular Cookie Walk on December 6,” she said. “It’s followed by a Coffee/Cocoa Crawl on December 8.”
There are also plenty of craft shows to help you jump-start your holiday shopping, too. The FarmHers A Very Merry Christmas Market at the Kendall County Fairgrounds takes place on November 14-15. Presented by Olde Farm Creek, you’ll find a vast array of handmade treasures, vintage collections, and boutique-style decor, along with holiday-inspired items, food, and beverages.
Businesses in Kendall County region are eager to help you fulfill all the merry wishes of your family, friends, co-workers, and associates. As small business owners they rely on the loyal following of their supporters and offer a variety of fun events and open houses for the holidays. Support them all year long, as they are always the first to help support local charities, nonprofits, and schools.
The Main Street Merchants, located in Plano, even offers a fun surprise for its customers when they check out their purchases during their Open House on December 6. They’ll have the opportunity of pulling a free raffle ticket just before they make their purchase. “If it is a lucky match to one of the three tickets already chosen by our staff and on display at our register, the customer’s purchase will be completely free,” says Main Street Merchants owner Andie Groff.
Check out the variety of holiday celebrations taking place throughout the area. Find a few that fit into your family’s schedule and experience a new and lasting tradition.
Holiday Happenings
By Patricia Szpekowski
It’s that special time of the year to exhale and indulge in all of the local holiday celebrations. There’s something for kids of all ages, from Christmas tree lightings and Santa visits to fun runs and holiday shopping. Don’t miss these special annual traditions.
PLANO
Christmas Open House
Where: Main Street Merchants, 218 Mitchell Drive
When: December 6, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
www.mainstreetmerchants.net
Main Street Merchants is a collective boutique featuring 34 local businesses all under one roof, with 10 “popup vendors” through the end of December. You’ll be able to enjoy refreshments and gourmet food tastings while shopping around this special 1500 square foot hub that comes alive and sparkles for the holidays. Customers will be able to pull a raffle ticket at the checkout, where they could be one of three lucky winners to earn their entire purchase for free.
Kris Kringle Mingle Market
Where: Emily G. Johns School, 430 Mitchell Drive
When: December 6, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
www.planocommerce.org
Support local makers with festive treats, crafts, clothing, artisan gifts, and much more. Enjoy holiday fun with a Santa visit and take a photo with the Grinch.
Plano Rockin’ Christmas Events
Help us help our neighbors in need and sponsor a gift card for a holiday dinner.
Lighted Vehicle Parade – Friday, December 5, line up 5:45 p.m. at Plano High School. Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Decorate your vehicle and spread the Holiday spirit.
Annual Spirit Award Presentation – The Ross Greiter Spirit Award is given each year to the person that best represents the “Spirit of Christmas” throughout the year.
Other events include Plano School bands to perform at depot and other award presentations.
Free Cookies and Cocoa in the Depot – Food is available for purchase outside the depot.
Check out “Plano Rockin’ Christmas” Facebook page. Call Plano City Hall 630-552-8275 with questions.
We’re Your Unique Holiday Shopping Experience!
OSWEGO
Oswego Christmas Walk
Where: Downtown Oswego
When: December 5, 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. www.oswegochristmaswalk.org
The Village of Oswego Christmas Walk kicks off the holiday season. Enjoy local choirs, live ice sculpting, an inflatable sled hill, games, crafts, and giveaways. Children are invited to bring their wish list to visit with Santa and Santa’s reindeer. Watch the annual tree lighting performance and the emergency vehicle light parade by the Oswego Fire Department District. In addition to decorated trucks and cars, favorite characters will take part in the parade. Downtown stores welcome you to enjoy holiday décor and browse for seasonal gifts.
Oswego Christmas Cookie Walk
Where: Downtown Oswego
When: December 6, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Pre-purchase a special cookie tin. Stroll around Downtown Oswego and enjoy festive sweet treats from participating businesses.
Jingle Bell Jog
Where: Old Traughber to Oswego Chamber Office
When: December 13, 9 a.m.
Runners receive a long sleeve Tech type shirt and jingle bells. Wear your Santa Hat and your bells and enjoy a jog that’s no pressure and full of fun.
SANDWICH
A Merry Little Sandwich Christmas
Where: Veteran’s Park
When: December 6, 4 - 7 p.m.
Visit Santa, decorate cookies, children’s crafts, tree lighting, food trucks, and much more!
YORKVILLE
Yorkville Holiday Celebration Parade
Where: Hydraulic Ave to Route 47
When: November 21, 6:30 p.m.
www.yorkville.il.us
Join the Yorkville Parks and Recreation Department as it spreads holiday tree with this popular and festive parade. Community members participate by creating illuminating floats that sparkle under the dark sky for a magical effect.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: Riverfront Park
When: November 21, 7 p.m.
www.yorkville.il.us
Immediately following the Yorkville Holiday Celebration Parade, join Mayor John Purcell in the long-standing tradition as he lights the beautiful 22-foot Christmas tree displayed at the center of Riverfront Park.
Christmas Cakes Cookie Platters, Pies, Donuts, Coffee Drinks
Visits with Santa Claus
Where: Yorkville American Legion Post 489
When: November 22, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
www.yorkville.il.us
Bring the family and visit Santa’s workshop. Children can share their wish lists with Santa and his merry elves. Santa is popular so expect to wait a little bit to visit with him. Limited parking is available near the American Legion.
Rudolph Run 5K
Where: Yorkville American Legion Post 489
When: November 22, 10 a.m.
www.yorkville.il.us
It’s a time to run, run, run, and help the Knights of Columbus spread Christmas cheer to families in need. The Rudolph Run is a professionally chip timed 5K and a portion of the registration supports the Knights of Columbus to provide food and toys to families within the Kendall County area at Christmas.
Jingle Jog Family Fun Run
Where: Yorkville American Legion Post 489
When: November 22, 12:30 p.m.
www.yorkville.il.us
The Jingle Jog Family Fun Run welcomes participants of all ages who are looking for a shorter, noncompetitive 1-mile fun run. All participants receive a Custom Finishers Medal, Jingle Bell, Activity Bag and a cup of Hot Chocolate. Funds raised help support the mission of the Knights of Columbus to benefit Kendall County area families in need.
Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration
Where: Yorkville Chapel on the Green, 107 W. Center St.
When: December 13, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
www.yorkvillechapelonthegreen.org
Enjoy time-honored holiday activities at this picturesque Yorkville chapel including Yorkville High School madrigal singers, brass and string, Virtues in Motion Dance Performance and Children’s Community Choir. There’s a luncheon, sweet shoppe, and plenty of children’s craft activities, too. Bring canned goods or gloves to be donated to Kendall County Food Pantry.
Deck the Trees Holiday Walk
Where: Town Square Park
When: December - New Year
www.yorkville.il.us
The Yorkville Parks and Recreation Department launches a new tradition. Step into a winter wonderland as you stroll through a festive display of over 30 beautifully holiday trees uniquely decorated by community organizations, businesses and families.
Comfort, Quality & Style
& home
Main Street Merchants
By Patricia Szpekowski | Photos provided by Andie Groff
There’s no place like Main Street Merchants in Plano for the holidays. Think of this unique shop first when you’re completing your merry holiday list and getting ready to gift others this season.
There’s a special reason the community loves Main Street Merchants, and why it was voted the 2025 Record Newspapers Best of the Fox Readers’ Choice Awards winner in the Home Décor & Gift Shop category.
Main Street Merchants is a collective boutique featuring 34 local businesses all under one roof, plus 10 “popup vendors” through the end of December. It’s a place where creativity meets community in a vibrant shopping experience. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find something to catch your eye — and the thrill of discovering handcrafted items you won’t find anywhere else. There’s always something for you, your family, the little ones, friends, associates and even pets.
latest seasonal floral bouquets, wreaths and stunning décor to bring the holiday spirit right into your home or office. See the latest Santas, snowmen, angels and Christmas florals, to name a few favorites.
Local creative artists at Main Street Merchants will showcase their finest works of art in acrylic, oil and watercolor, plus sketches, wood flower bouquets and more. “We also have many Plano-themed paintings of our beautiful landmarks, including the water tower and Downtown Plano,” adds Groff.
What else is new at Main Street Merchants?
The introduction of the men’s lifestyle boutique, Double Barrel Mercantile, right up front in the store. It’s filled with men’s wallets, belts, hats, shirts and much more perfect for filling stockings this Christmas season. As a bonus, Groff says there will be an array of man-cave-style furnishings on display to take that cozy comfort home.
Owner Andie Groff, who is also the founder and proprietor of the popular The Chocolate Shoppe right next door, welcomes you to stop by and take part in the warmth and excitement of being surrounded by one-of-a-kind treasures. Especially during this holiday season, when two special events are planned with loyal shoppers and the community in mind.
“Our talented vendors are all independent small businesses,” adds Groff. “So, we’re excited about celebrating Small Business Saturday on November 29 with a special Mall Crawl Event from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Light Source Cove.”
Visit Main Street Merchants during the event and you’ll be able to take part in a special surprise for guests. Groff says, “When you stop in at Main Street Merchants, customers will be able to pull a raffle ticket at the checkout, where they could be one of three lucky winners to earn their entire purchase for free!”
On Saturday, December 6, Main Street Merchants will hold its Christmas Open House from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shoppers can enjoy refreshments and gourmet food tastings while browsing this special 1,500-square-foot hub that comes alive and sparkles for the holiday.
The skilled local artisans will offer a large array of gift items, including clothing, jewelry, hats, gloves and accessories, along with the
Mark your calendars for fun shopping ahead at Main Street Merchants and find out the latest news on their Facebook page.
Vendors of Main Street Merchants
A New Purpose
Abranda Icle Art
Andie’s Attic
Angie’s Creative Crafts
Arbor Tree Pottery
B Happy Art
Bella Baby Boutique
Cindy Ray Art
Country Kitchen Candle Company
Double Barrel Mercantile
Double Dog Woodworks
Forget Me Not By Bri
Ginger’s Boujee Bakery
J&R Printing
K Voss Fine Art
Ker About Art
Kott Shot Krafts & Kreations
Marlaine’s Market
Ol’ Made Quilts
Puppables Treats
Red Tail Reprieve
Root to Radiance
Rowe Casa Organics
Starkie Production
Stitches in Bloom
Sweetpea Pines
T&J Woodworking & Custom Designs
The Chocolate Shoppe
Two Chicks on a Journey
Viva La Funny
Watgen Warrior Family Farm
Zion & Co.
Nonprofits play vital role in communities
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
Local nonprofits play a vital role in our communities. From food pantries to arts programs, check out these groups working to make a difference.
Mutual Ground
For 50 years, Mutual Ground in Aurora has strived to create a safe place for individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence and substance abuse through education and awareness. Mutual Ground also offers life-changing services including counseling, emergency shelter, community trainings and more. Every year, hundreds of volunteers support Mutual Ground’s work from organizing donations for clients to fundraising and event planning. www.mutualground.org
Moms & More of Oswego
This non-profit organization is dedicated to helping local moms build their village through friendship, support and meaningful connections. The group also gives back through various outreach efforts, including school supply drives, clothing donations, visits
to assisted living facilities, maintaining a local community garden and donations to area charities. In addition, Moms & More supports education by contributing to a Waubonsee Community College scholarship for moms going back to school. “Whether you’re a new mom or seasoned parent, Moms & More offers a welcoming space to grow, give and connect with others who understand the journey,” says co-leader Michelle Brayton. www.momsandmoreoswego.org
Kendall County Community Food Pantry
Every Thursday at noon, Kendall County Community Food Pantry opens its doors for in-person grocery shopping, which is available to residents of Kendall, LaSalle and DeKalb counties. Residents can also register their pets for the pet food pantry. In addition, the organization offers a clothing closet on Mondays and Thursdays. From donating essential household items to sorting food donations, there are plenty of ways for volunteers to support Kendall County Community Food Pantry. “Community donations are so vital right now. We’re seeing more
A BALL
neighbors come through our doors than ever before, and we know that number will only continue to grow in the coming months,” says Dulce Vargas, assistant director. www.kccfoodpantry.org
Sandwich Opera House
Originally opened in 1878, the historic 300-seat venue that’s home to Sandwich Opera House Performing Arts Theatre provides a cultural hub for music and theater enthusiasts. Supported by a team of dedicated volunteers and donors, Sandwich Opera Houses delivers shows, events and a glimpse into local history. www.sandwichoperahouse.org
Here’s a look at some of the many other nonprofits making a difference in the Kendall County area.
100+ Women Who Care of Oswego, Montgomery and Yorkville – Every quarter, a group of 100+ women donates $100 each to a local charity based on a group vote. www.100wwc-omy.org
3:11 Project – Through social media outreach, this nonprofit in Yorkville strives to help those facing hardship by providing assistance from food and clothing to financial support. The group also coordinates holiday drives for children through seniors. www.facebook.com/The311Project
Aurora Public Library Foundation – For 25 years, the Aurora Public Library Foundation has supported the library community in many ways from Light of Learning scholarships to Rory’s Readers Adventure Kits for children. Currently they are raising funds to support renovations at the library’s Eola Road Branch. www.aplfoundationil.org
CASA Kendall County – Trained volunteers serve to protect a child’s right to a safe and permanent home by being the child’s voice in court. www.casakendallcounty.org
Feed My Starving Children – Every day, groups of kids and adults gather at the facility in Aurora to help pack MannaPack™ meals, which provide nutritious meals to children worldwide. www.fmsc.org
Aurora Film Society – Since 2018, the Aurora Film Society has been broadening the community’s collective horizons through cinema. Screenings are held the third Wednesday of the month at The Venue in downtown Aurora. www.aurorafilmsociety.org
Tree Farm Traditions
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Over the river and through the woods, families can find the perfect Christmas tree for their home this holiday season. The fragrance of a freshly cut pine and the glow from twinkling lights are core childhood memories of the holidays.
For years, families have traveled to Anderson Tree Farm in Plainfield for their annual freshcut trees. The working farm stays busy through the holiday season as visitors shop for fresh-cut trees hauled in from Wisconsin and North Carolina.
The farm sells Christmas trees from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve, or until its selection sells out, said Chuck Anderson. The farm, located at 508 W. Route 126, has been part of his family since the 1950s, when it started as a tomato farm.
These days, the farm hosts seasonal activities in addition to its homegrown produce and fresh eggs. Andrew Armitage and his family have been visiting Anderson Tree Farm for years to purchase their Christmas tree and said it’s the people who make it a holiday tradition.
“It’s such a nice atmosphere,” said Armitage, whose young children love to race from tree to tree, quickly picking their favorite pine.
“I like seeing which one is the tallest,” said Georgie, 8, who is excited that she will get to help put the ornaments and decorations on the tree this year, including the angel ornament on top.
While the tree farm is a short drive from their home on the Kendall-Will county border, Armitage said
The Chocolate Shoppe
By Jonathan Bilyk | Photos provided by The Chocolate Shoppe
For master chocolatier Andie Groff, Valentine’s Day may be the busiest time of year at her store, The Chocolate Shoppe.
But if it is, the Day of Love only claims the top spot by a jolly red nose over its biggest and most wonderful business-generating competition — the Christmas season.
“Everyone loves chocolate,” Groff said. And chocolate, she said, pairs great with Christmas.
“We have something for all ages,” Groff said. “Stocking stuffers, gifts for parents and grandmas and grandpas, you name it.
Groff said those new truffles will include four types of coffee-infused chocolates — and the debut of the Shoppe’s first-ever truffle featuring the confectionery phenomenon known as Dubai chocolate.
The candy style, featuring a pistachio-tahini ganache, has swept the globe since it was invented four years ago by chocolatiers in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.
“I’m not sure anyone else is offering these yet,” Groff said. “We expect it’s going to be very popular.”
The Shoppe will also offer extended holiday hours to accommodate what Groff expects to be a very busy season. The store will be open 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Saturday. It will also be open on the two Sundays before Christmas from noon to 5 PM., giving customers looking for the sweetest gifts “a little extra opportunity to shop.”
However, Groff recommended that customers not wait until the last minute to swoop into the store looking for that perfect treat for someone special. She noted that the Shoppe’s goodies stay fresh for weeks as long as they’re kept out of direct sunlight.
“As the song says, we have something that will make people smile, ‘for kids, from one to 92.’”
This Christmas season, Groff and The Chocolate Shoppe expect to once again be hopping like North Pole elves, busily preparing, packaging and shipping out waves of goodies for everyone on those lists.
In addition to their regular array of sweet treats, the store on U.S. Route 34 in Plano rolled out its holiday-themed confections during the first week of November.
These include the store’s popular peppermint bark, mint chocolate bars and chocolates shaped to resemble beloved Yuletide figures, including Santa Claus, gingerbread people and Christmas trees. Customers will also find chocolate lollipops and hot cocoa bombs.
And of course, the store will offer its wide selection of traditional favorites, available for custom assortments or in grab-and-go presorted boxes.
The stars of this year’s festive lineup may be the special Christmas editions of The Chocolate Shoppe’s line of truffles.
The Shoppe’s assortments of truffles will be available in a variety of options, including party platters that Groff said would be perfect for putting holiday spreads at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings over the top.
Groff said the Shoppe will also offer assorted chocolate platters featuring items such as salted caramels and buttercreams, as well as chocolate-dipped strawberry platters, which she said will “always be a winner on the dessert table.”
Groff said the Shoppe will give the public chances to drop in and sample many of the confections offered at the store. On Nov. 8, The Chocolate Shoppe will host a holiday open house and chocolate tasting event.
Then, on Dec. 13, the Shoppe will again welcome guests to a special Christmas Open House from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including a meet and greet and photos with Santa from 2 to 5 p.m.
“I definitely would say people shouldn’t wait until the last minute,” Groff said. “We will sell out of some items, especially at that last week before Christmas.”
Groff also encouraged customers to apply that same proactive philosophy when looking ahead to the next big chocolatey holiday — Valentine’s Day.
She advised customers to plan to submit their orders for the store’s “famous long-stem chocolate-dipped strawberries” in January to guarantee they can get what they’re really after.
“It’ll all be here before you know it,” Groff said.
But first, Groff said she hopes to welcome everyone in for some holiday cheer — preferably coated in chocolate.
they enjoy the tradition of selecting a tree and spending time at the farm as the children indulge in free hot chocolate and popcorn treats and visit with some of the small animals.
“A fresh tree, it’s a different atmosphere,” Armitage said. “The smell. It’s something special to do as a family.”
Anderson Tree Farm also has a field where it grows Christmas trees that visitors can cut themselves. Anderson said he’s downsized the cut-your-own field, but there are still some trees growing strong, and families are welcome to visit.
Another great nearby location for cutting your own tree is Abbey Farms in Aurora, part of Marmion Abbey, where families have been visiting since 1964 for fresh-cut trees. Abbey Farms is a working farm that hosts seasonal activities, including its Christmas Joy celebration, where visitors can purchase pre-cut trees or cut down their own from the farm’s tree fields.
The staff at Abbey Farms brings in fresh-cut trees from Michigan, where the sandy soil supports fir trees.
Families can head into the marked fields to search among the selection of Scotch pine, white pine and spruce. Trees ready for this season are marked, and the maximum height for field trees is 6½ feet. It takes about 15 years for a tree to grow to a sellable height.
No need to bring tools—saws are available for use with a cash deposit. Choosing to cut your own tree can get messy, so it’s best to dress for the weather and bring an old blanket to kneel on while cutting. The staff can help tie the tree down to the car. In addition to trees, there are garlands and wreaths available for purchase.
After selecting the perfect tree, step into the Nagel Farmstand Emporium, a café and store where you can enjoy some refreshments and shop for gifts. Abbey Farms also hosts Visits with Santa on select days. See the website for the full schedule.
Christmas Walk Opportunities at the Chamber office
Promote yourself to the attendees of the Christmas walk at the chamber office. Trolley drop off is at Byline Bank and there will also be activities at the Little White School House
Sponsorship Opportunities
Smores Fire Pits - $125 (3 available) Hot Beverage Sponsor - $75 you pick either coffee, cocoa or cider and be at th office to serve to people
Decorate a tree for our “Tree Lot” $75 Sparkle Sponsor - $50
Fri, December 5 | 4:30 - 8:30 pm | 25 E Jackson St Info & More Details 630-554-3505
Activities at the office during the walk:
Smores Pits Tree Lot Hot Beverages 50/50 Rafffe
Drop off filled stockings to be donated to local food pantries Warming station 50/50
2nd Annual
Jingle Bell Jog
2025
Sat. December 13th - 9 am
Old Traughber Jr High School | 71 Franklin St
Wear your Santa hats and join us for a “mile” jog. Burn off holiday stress and holiday cookies while having fun
This is just for fun. No awards, no timing.
All participants receive a hoodie & jingle bells. We will have cocoa and cookies at the end of the race and an appearance of Santa. Afterwards head downtown to finish your Christmas shopping/have lunch.
SPONSORSHIPS
Santa Sponsor - $500 members/$750 non members includes 2 hoodies
Sleigh sponsor - $250 members/$400 non embers includes 1 hoodie
Jingle Bell sponsor - $150 members / $250no members
If you have sponsored an event in 2025 already at $250 or above take 20% off your sponsorship price for this event.
All sponsors get: Logo on shirt, booth at event, signage at event
PARTICIPANTS $35
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
REGISTER HERE
EGateville Law Firm
By Chris Walker | Photos by Locked In Photography
very professional needs strong business relationships to be successful. The Gateville Law Firm happens to be in the relationship business, building trust with clients while tackling complex estate planning and asset protection needs for those with assets exceeding $1.2 million.
Without a doubt, estate planning is vital to protecting your legacy and providing clear instructions for your loved ones when life gets tough. By choosing the experts at the Gateville Law Firm, clients can reduce the chance of misunderstandings and prolonged legal issues that could carry on well after they’re gone.
“We’ve built a pretty good client base,” says Sean Robertson, attorney and founding partner of Gateville Law Firm. “I think the one thing we’ve created is a relationship model. We’re looking to build a relationship with people. We do a very good job of educating clients about different estate planning. Relationships are big for us. We’re looking to have ongoing relationships today and months down the line. It’s more of a continuing relationship where it’s not just one and done.”
Robertson understands legacy planning like a book—and recognizes its urgency. Many in the industry have heard horror stories about heirs losing substantial portions of their inheritance to unnecessary taxes and fees that could have been avoided through proactive planning and the guidance of professionals like those at Gateville Law Firm.
“We are good at what we do, and what I’ve been trying to do for the last six months is advertise estate planning and asset protection,” Robertson says. “We want to focus on the $1.2 million in assets market, which is our niche. Our goal is to help our clients craft comprehensive estate plans
that will protect their wealth and provide for future generations.”
Protecting the hard-earned wealth of clients allows Robertson and his team to promote family well-being while ensuring each client’s legacy plan aligns with their long-term vision.
“We take the time to get to know our clients and explain their options,” Robertson says. “We craft customized estate plans to ensure their wishes will be carried out according to their desires. With our guidance and assistance, families can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their hard-earned assets will be protected and distributed correctly.”
Gateville Law Firm’s estate planning and asset protection services are extensive. Living trusts, last wills and testaments, joint trusts vs. individual trusts, blended
family estate planning, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, special needs estate planning, asset protection and wealth preservation, small-business estate planning, legacy planning, and real estate legacy planning are among its specialties.
Clients who have chosen the Gateville Law Firm are overwhelmingly pleased. Their collective voices of satisfaction have earned the firm the 2025 Best of the Fox Readers’ Choice Award for Best Lawyer/Law Firm in Kendall County.
The Gateville Law Firm is located at 201 E. Veterans Parkway, Suite 14, in Yorkville. For more information, call 630-780-1034 or visit www.gatevillelawfirm.com.
B R E W E D
Warming up winter at the coffeehouse
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
The weather outside might be frightful, but the warmth of friendly conversation over a hot beverage beckons inside local coffeehouses.
Recently, The Hinckley Coffee House opened its first storefront location in Plano in addition to its coffee trucks, including one in Sandwich. Whichever location you visit, try out customers’ favorites like Cinnamon Roll Latte, Cubana, and Cold Brew. They pair nicely with Hinckley’s breakfast sandwiches and glazed croissants.
For a seasonal treat, you can’t go wrong with an Old-Fashioned Latte – a caramel bourbon latte with smoked espresso. Other seasonal drinks include Salted Caramel Cold Brew, Peppermint Mocha, Nutcracker Latte (toffee nut and mocha) or a Home For Christmas (salted caramel chai).
“We’re so thankful for the opportunity to share our love for creating handcrafted coffee with you each day. We hope that you
enjoy each cup as much as we have enjoyed crafting them for you,” says owner Tiffany Foster. A W A K E N I N G
Holiday Food Drive
Supporting Kendall County Food Pantry
Help local families in need and enjoy savings on your dental care!
Bring canned or boxed goods to our office and receive a special thank-you
Give yourself a new smile for the holidays and help our community smile brighter!
• Bring 10 items → 5% OFF one procedure of your choice
• Bring 20 items → 10% OFF one procedure of your choice
Suggested Non-Perishable Food Items
• Canned foods (soups, vegetables, fruits, tuna, chicken, etc.)
• Bottled items (drinks, juices, condiments, sauces, etc.)
• Boxed goods (pasta, cereal, oatmeal, etc.)
• Please, no fresh or frozen foods.
About Our Practice
Discover 20+ years of excellence in Family and Cosmetic Dentistry combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate care.
Over at the Oak + Bean in Oswego, customers enjoy the rotating menu of specialty drinks every season. Some delights over the winter/holidays last year included Peppermint Mocha, Snowball Latte, Spritz Cookie Latte, French Madeline Latte, and Peppermint Cream Cold Brew. Be sure to stop by for a complimentary holiday wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10.
“We’ll probably bring back a couple of these popular drinks as well as a few new ones, which will be a surprise to our customers when they are released in December,” says owner Connie DiNello.
This specialty wine and coffee bar also serves freshly made pastries, sandwiches and salads, charcuterie boards, and other
made-to-order items. Popular items include the Brown Sugar Bacon Gouda Sandwich, Avocado and Pistachio Toast, Turkey Club, and the Oak + Bean Cheese & Charcuterie Board.
Another popular coffee shop in Oswego is The Village Grind. This hidden gem serves a variety of coffee and teas. For breakfast, try a bagel with unique cream cheese flavors or homemade pastries. At lunchtime, choose from quiches, sandwiches and salads. Winter means the return of the soup season. Whenever you go, be sure to save room for dessert like cherry cobbler pastry or a slice of eclair cake.
GRACE Coffee and Wine in Yorkville is a casual coffeehouse featuring handcrafted, cafe-inspired bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The extensive coffee and tea menu is served all day. Or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or whitehot chocolate.
Kick off your day with a breakfast sandwich, French toast flight or egg bites. The lunch and dinner menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads and soup. GRACE also offers charcuterie boards and small plates, which pair nicely with GRACE’s selection of wines, beers and cocktails.
At Angie’s Sugar Buzz Bakery, you’ll be delighted to find displays bursting with a dizzying variety of cookies, scones, cupcakes, brownies, holiday-themed treats and more. You can warm your hands with one of their expertly crafted beverages on a cold day out shopping for the holidays!
If you indulged too much over the holidays, you can still satisfy your sweet tooth with healthy treats at Elly’s Nutrition in Aurora. This cafe sells baked goods like donuts and waffles using almond flour and adding protein. These treats pair nicely with the shop’s seasonal coffees and teas, including the Medicine Ball Tea, which is loaded with vitamins and minerals to help fight off germs this winter.
Eat, Drink and be Merry...
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